Robert Brindley, of Gambleside in Basildon, tried to break into two properties in Steeple Heights, Benfleet, in August 2024 - then returned and tried again in March 2026. Brindley was linked to all seven offences by police officers recognising him in CCTV footage. Defence barrister Chris Martin urged the court to impose a suspended sentence with a mental health treatment requirement. He now had a stable relationship, stable accommodation and hoped to seek help with his mental health and return to work on the railway. Recorder Peter Clark sentenced Brindley sentenced Brindley to 16 months for the first two attempted Steeple Heights break-ins.